"South Carolina is a great place to be from." -- Tim Scott. We couldn't have said it better ourselves.
With a population of a bit over 11,000 and a square mileage of 6.9, Parker is a small town with a high population density (the average square mile has 1,675 residents). When the average person thinks of Parker, it's with typically with the thought of southern films, hot muggy summers, and a cold glass of lemonade. The city exudes that unique old-time southern charm, while still retaining the modernity granted by its proximity to Greenville.
Moving to Parker
How Much Will it Cost?
Here's the great news: costs of living in Parker are crazy low. With the average home costing about the same as a new mid-range car, property values are very low. However, they are on the rise -- the average value of a home as risen around 20% since 2000, but the growth is slow, meaning there isn't as much rush to find a home for rent.
To tell the truth, it might be cheaper to purchase a home than to rent an apartment in Parker. Mortgage rates in the area are likely lower than monthly rent would be, and that option would provide you with the ability to modify your home any way you liked.
What Do I Need?
First and foremost, a car. While public transportation exists, the system is not as effective as it might be in a metropolis. Most folks in the area drive anywhere they need to go. Also, if you're planning to work in nearby Greenville or make day trips to the city for shopping and entertainment purposes, it pays to have your own mode of transportation. Otherwise, you'll need to rely on a friendly neighbor to take where you need to go.
As far as renting goes, restrictions are pretty lenient. However, it never hurts to be able to provide proof of income, credit history, and a few good referrals from past landlords. Having proof that you are a good tenant can net better month to month rates. Who doesn't want a cheaper price on apartment rentals?
Parker Neighborhoods
Parker is, in and of itself, a neighborhood of Greenville. It's roughly two miles away from downtown Greenville, and has been absorbed as a suburb of the city. However, when it comes to Parker itself, there aren't really any distinctive neighborhoods. While the central area of Parker is more built up, the outskirts are markedly more rural, with a lot of uncultivated land that attracts those who want the best of both worlds: city life and country living.
Living in Parker
Parker has a lot to offer residents, with plenty of diversions to keep even the eclectic individuals entertained. On nice days, it's common to find people at Hagood Park, Kings Park, or Stevens Field enjoying a game of baseball with friends. The Dupont State Forest is where hundreds of people spend their evenings and mornings fishing, hiking, and running along nature trails. The gun-enthusiasts in Parker can be found at the Pickens County Range, honing their skills and practicing their craft.
Parker doesn't slouch on cuisine options, either. With all of the major staples available, it's also home to locally owned options like Mama Maria's, Nazario's Mexican Restaurant, and numerous others.
Parker Schools
There are plenty of schools around Parker, including Parker High School, Westcliffe Elementary School, and Tabernacle Christian School. Besides these three, there are more than a half dozen other schools spread out through the surrounding area, both accredited and not.
In addition to basic schools, there are several post secondary schools in the area including Furman University, Brown Mackie College, and Virginia College.
Parker Crime
Crime is almost nonexistent in the Parker area. It is a bit higher within the Greenville metropolitan area, but still far below national averages. South Carolina tends to be a very safe place to live overall.
